Modeling · Beginner

Edge loop

A chain of connected edges that runs around a model, end to end

What is an edge loop?

An edge loop is a chain of connected edges that runs across a mesh, going straight through each four-way junction until it meets itself or an open border. Loops let you select a whole band of a model in one click, add rows of detail and shape areas that bend, such as eyes, mouths and joints.

Think of it like this

An edge loop is like a belt around a waist: it circles the body in one line, and moving or tightening it reshapes everything along its path.

Where it fits in a 3D project

  1. Create
  2. Surface
  3. Rig
  4. Animate
  5. Render
  6. Export

Create: Building the shape: modeling, sculpting, scanning or generating it.

Edge loop
An edge loop is a ring of connected edges running around the surface.

How an edge loop works

  1. 01Start from one edge in a grid of quads.
  2. 02Follow it through each vertex where four edges meet, going straight across.
  3. 03Keep going until the path returns to its start or reaches an open border.
  4. 04A triangle, n-gon or pole stops the loop or turns it.

Edge loop vs edge ring

PropertyEdge loopEdge ring
Edges runEnd to end, along the pathSide by side, across the path
Looks likeA belt or a railThe rungs of a ladder
Select in BlenderAlt-click an edgeCtrl+Alt-click an edge
Typical useShaping, sliding or beveling a bandCutting new loops through the ring

Select an edge loop to move or shape a band of the model; select an edge ring when you want to cut new loops across it.

Where an edge loop is used

  • Circling eyes, mouths and joints so they bend cleanly
  • Adding detail with a loop cut
  • Holding sharp corners on a subdivision model

Beginner tip

Before rigging, check that loops wrap around each joint like rings on a finger. Two or three loops at an elbow or knee is a common rule of thumb for clean bending.

Terms related to an edge loop

Edge loop FAQ

How do I select an edge loop in Blender?
In Edit Mode, hold Alt and click an edge, and Blender selects the whole loop it belongs to. On a Mac, use Option-click. Select > Select Loops > Edge Loops does the same from the menu.
How do I add an edge loop?
Use a loop cut tool. In Blender, press Ctrl+R in Edit Mode, hover over an edge to preview the new loop, then click and slide it into place. It adds a full ring of edges across every face in the path.
Where should edge loops go?
Around the parts that move or need definition: eyes, mouth, joints, and the borders of hard-surface panels. On flat, static areas, use as few loops as the shape allows.

Updated October 29, 2026 · Browse all 3D terms